EMT process in bone metastasis

Dingcheng Gao, Erik W. Thompson, Vivek Mittal

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Metastasis is responsible for more than 90% of cancer related deaths. Bone is one of the most frequent sites of metastasis from various primary carcinomas, especially breast and prostate. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying bone metastasis is a major focus of research. The polarized epithelial tumor cells undergo epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) to acquire invasive mesenchymal phenotypes. The EMT-related stemness and chemo-resistance phenotypes are frequently observed in osteotrophic tumors. In this chapter, we will focus on the engagement of the EMT signaling pathway in bone specific homing, quiescence and dormancy phenotypes of the disseminated tumor cells, and the influence of the bone marrow microenvironment in supporting the outgrowth of bone metastatic lesions. We will also discuss the possibility that available therapeutics targeting bone metastasis affect the EMT status of tumor cells.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationBone Cancer
Subtitle of host publicationPrimary Bone Cancers and Bone Metastases: Second Edition
PublisherElsevier
Pages451-459
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)9780124167285
ISBN (Print)9780124167216
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2015

Keywords

  • Bone metastasis
  • Epithelial mesenchymal transition
  • Niche
  • Stem cell
  • Therapy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Medicine(all)

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